Sunday, January 13, 2019

Press Center speaks on arrest, detention of photojournalist over hairstyle

The International Press Center, IPC, Nigeria has condemned the arrest of a photojournalist, Yinka Badmus over his hairstyle.

IPC, which described the arrest and detention of Badmus who works with Talk Village International in

Lagos as unconstitutional, demanded for his immediate release.

In a statement issued by its Director, Lanre Arogundade, IPC Nigeria stated that the detention of Badmus is an infringement on his constitutional right.

He disclosed that for days the photojournalist was in detention before he was arraigned and remanded on the orders of an Ogudu Magistrate Court, Lagos.

In was gathered that Badmus, 24was arrested on New Year eve by policemen attached to the Lagos State Anti-Cultism unit for wearing dreadlocks, which the officers allegedly said made him look like a cultist while eating noodles at Pedro Bus stop, Gbagada, Lagos.

Mr. Arogundade appealed to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to look into the unjust treatment melted out to Badmus in order for him to regain his freedom

The IPC Director also enjoined journalists to be mindful of their safety and ensure they have a means of identification on them at all times.